Lymph nodes which are also known as lymph glands are a vital part of our body’s immune system. Lymph glands are located in several areas such as under the chin and the jaw, backside of the head, neck etc. Lymph glands help the body in fighting off the germs and other foreign particles. However, when the lymph glands get swollen there are more chances for the person getting prone to illnesses and infections.
Swollen lymph glands cause lymphadenitis and the common causes of this condition include ear infection, measles, gingivitis, tonsillitis, tooth abscess etc. Certain autoimmune disorders could be a reason behind the swelling of the lymph glands. Swollen lymph glands are tender and painful as well. Treatment for this condition depends upon the root cause of swelling. If the swelling lasts for a longer time or enlarges, then you need to seek immediate medical attention. Moreover, a few home remedies could help treat the swollen lymph glands.
Here Are A Few Home Remedies Which Could Help Treat Swollen Lymph Glands:
Salt Water Gargle:
Using salt water to gargle is a great way to reduce the swelling of the lymph glands. This remedy helps in reducing the inflammation and swelling of the lymph glands present in the neck which is caused due to throat infections. To prepare the solution, add 2-3 tbsp. of salt to a cup of warm water. Use this solution to swish around your mouth and gargle. Follow the same procedure for 3-4 times for about a week. It gives an instant relief from the pain caused due to the swollen lymph glands.
Warm Compress:
Using warm compress for reducing the swelling of your lymph glands is an easy and effective remedy. A warm compress can help in enhancing the blood circulation which can, in turn, help reduce the pain and swelling of the lymph nodes. Dip a warm cloth in a bowl of warm water and wring off the excess water. Place it on the swollen lymph nodes for 5-10 minutes until you experience relief. Follow the same regularly until the pain subsides.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is one of the oldest therapeutic ingredients that are amazingly effective as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory spice. Few studies have mentioned that the antioxidant compounds in the turmeric help in reducing the swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck. Add a pinch of turmeric to a glass of warm milk. Consuming it regularly helps in reversing the viral infections and reduces the swelling.
Honey:
Honey is another amazing remedy for treating enlarged lymph glands. The anti-inflammatory properties of honey can help in reducing the pain as well as swelling. Also, the antibacterial compounds in honey can help in combating the infection which could be a reason behind the swollen lymph nodes. To prepare this concoction, add a tbsp. of honey to half a tbsp. of lemon juice in a cup filled with warm water. Consume it twice regularly. Alternatively, you can add a tbsp. of honey to a cup of hot tea. Honey helps in reducing the swelling whereas hot tea acts as a relaxant.
Garlic:
Garlic helps in treating the swollen lymph glands because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming 2-3 raw garlic cloves can help cleanse the system internally which can further help reduce the symptoms associated with the swollen lymph glands. Alternatively, you can go for garlic supplements or massage the affected area using garlic oil for better results.
Massaging:
Massaging the swollen lymph nodes also help in reducing the pain and swelling. Massage can help in stimulating the lymph glands and promote its optimal functioning. This can help in reducing the swelling within a short period. Gently massage your lymph glands with your fingers for 5-10 minutes and you could notice better results within a few days.
Peppermint:
Peppermint helps in treating the swollen lymph glands easily and this is due to the presence of an active ingredient known as menthol in it. This ingredient has antiviral properties that help in reducing the swelling. So, to experience better results consume a cup of peppermint tea or extract the peppermint juice from a few mint leaves and consume it.
Apple Cider Vinegar:
ACV helps reduce the swelling of the lymph glands in the neck by creating an alkaline environment and helps balance the pH levels in the body. It promotes detoxification and cleanses the system internally. Add a tbsp. of ACV to a glass of distilled water. Consume it before your breakfast and repeat the same for every four hours.
Castor Oil:
Castor oil has lots of medicinal properties which help in reversing the swelling of the lymph glands. Consume it under your doctor’s supervision. Castor oil helps in promoting detoxification. A warm compress using castor oil on the swollen area can help reduce the swelling of the lymph glands.
Basil Leaves:
Basil leaves contain lots of therapeutic compounds and the juice extracted from it helps treat swollen lymph glands. Add a tbsp. of honey along to the basil leaves extract and consume it regularly to get rid of the swelling in the lymph glands.
